He was born in Delaware on October 5, 1921 to the late Prince Albert and Bertha Belle (Nooks) Mendenhall. A graduate and Vice-President of Willis High School in 1940 where he was a stellar athlete. He played both offensive and defensive end on the football team, center for the basketball team, baseball, boxed and ran track.

Following graduation he attended The Ohio State University until he was called to serve his Country during WW II. He was a US Army veteran, participating in the campaigns of: Tunisia, Naples, Sicily, Rome-Arno, Southern France, Rhineland, and Central Europe. He was awarded the European African Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with 7 Bronze Stars and 2 Bronze Arrowheads.

Upon returning home to Delaware from the war, he became the first African American mail carrier for the Delaware Post Office. He then owned and operated a asphalt paving and concrete business in Delaware. Moving to Columbus in 1961 he served as the supervisor for the maintenance dept. of Mershon Auditorium for The Ohio State University for 5 years. He then worked in campus security for Ohio Dominican College for 17 years until retirement.

Russell was a member of Second Baptist Church. He enjoyed all sports and was an avid fan of the OSU Buckeyes.

He is survived by twin sons: Ralph (Merewyn) and Robert Mendenhall of Columbus, daughter: Karen Mendenhall also of Columbus, step-son: David Mendenhall of Marion, 2 grandchildren, extended family and friends; including Robert Bayless.

Friends may call one hour prior to the 11 a.m. service on Wednesday at the DeVore-Snyder Funeral Home 75 W. William Street, Delaware with Pastor Lamont Coates officiating. Interment will follow with Military Graveside Honors by the Delaware County Veterans Assoc. in the Oak Grove Cemetery.